EDMONDS — Police and Snohomish County sheriff’s deputies are investigating a series of vandalism complaints in and around Edmonds after someone spray painted swastikas on homes and cars between Sunday and Monday.
Police in Edmonds received nearly a half dozen complaints from the Westgate area by mid-afternoon Monday, said Sgt. Josh McClure.
“We had several people report a swastika or what is an attempt to be a swastika,” McClure said.
Some of the symbols were drawn backwards.
“We are continuing to examine each incident as well as the incident as a whole to determine if there is a specific reason these people were targeted,” McClure said. “We have also notified the local FBI office to make them aware of the situation as we do in any investigation that may include a possible hate crime motivation.”
At this point none of the victims believe they were targeted due to their race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation or handicap, officials said. However, the Edmonds Police Department is continuing to investigate the graffiti as possible hate crimes in addition to the crime of vandalism.
Chief Al Compaan said: “This sort of criminal behavior has no place in our society and is strongly condemned by me and any who stand up for the law and basic human dignity. We are asking for the public’s help with identifying suspects.”
Anyone with information is asked to call Edmonds police at 425-771-0212 or go online to epdtips.edmondswa.gov.
Likewise, neighbors in the 8700 block of 222nd Street SW just outside city limits made similar reports, said sheriff’s Lt. John Flood.
In all, eight vehicles had a swastika and one vehicle had the word “Trump” written on it, Flood said.
Police are checking the neighborhood for possible video footage.
“We have no suspect information at this time,” McClure said Monday afternoon.
People with tips outside city limits can call the south precinct at 425-388-5250.
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